Potential therapeutic effects and pharmacological evidence of sinomenine in central nervous system disorders

Investigating the therapeutic potential of sinomenine in rheumatoid arthritis: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory mechanisms

An autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by the onset of inflammation and subsequent damage to the joints. Although several therapies are available for RA, none are effective, and many have undesirable side effects. The roots of Sinomenium acutum produce an alkaloid called Sinomenine (SIN), which has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine to treat arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to explore the potential therapeutic benefits of SIN through oral administration following RA induction using Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) injections. The study monitored changes in the arthritic index, hind paw volume, inflammation and oxidative stress markers. Results demonstrated that SIN effectively inhibited the activity of NF-κB and IKKβ in knee joint tissues, which led to a decrease in tissue levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and iNOS in RA-induced rats. The production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, Arg-1, and Fizz1 also increased. In rat knee joints, SIN elevated the expression of TIMP-1 and TIMP-3 and decreased the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Additionally, SIN modulated the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway in RA-induced rat knee joint tissues, reducing RANKL expression and increasing OPG. SIN also effectively decreased MDA, NO, and elevated antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH) in RA-induced rats via Nrf2/Keap 1 signaling pathway activation. In conclusion, this study suggests that SIN possesses potential therapeutic benefits for treating RA by modulating the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway, which may impact osteoclast activity, oxidative stress, and inflammation in knee joint tissues.

Sinomenine increases osteogenesis in mice with ovariectomy-induced bone loss by modulating autophagy

BACKGROUND

A decreased autophagic capacity of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) has been suggested to be an important cause of decreased osteogenic differentiation. A pharmacological increase in autophagy of BMSCs is a potential therapeutic option to increase osteoblast viability and ameliorate osteoporosis.

AIM

To explore the effects of sinomenine (SIN) on the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

For in vitro experiments, BMSCs were extracted from sham-treated mice and ovariectomized mice, and the levels of autophagy markers and osteogenic differentiation were examined after treatment with the appropriate concentrations of SIN and the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine. In vivo, the therapeutic effect of SIN was verified by establishing an ovariectomy-induced mouse model and by morphological and histological assays of the mouse femur.

RESULTS

SIN reduced the levels of AKT and mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) phosphorylation in the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, inhibited mTOR activity, and increased autophagy ability of BMSCs, thereby promoting the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and effectively alleviating bone loss in ovariectomized mice in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The Chinese medicine SIN has potential for the treatment of various types of osteoporosis, bone homeostasis disorders, and autophagy-related diseases.

Unveiling the neuroprotective properties of isoflavones: current evidence, molecular mechanisms and future perspectives

Neurodegenerative diseases encompass a wide range of debilitating and incurable brain disorders characterized by the progressive deterioration of the nervous system's structure and function. Isoflavones, which are naturally occurring polyphenolic phytochemicals, have been found to regulate various cellular signaling pathways associated with the nervous system. The main objective of this comprehensive review is to explore the neuroprotective effects of isoflavones, elucidate the underlying mechanisms, and assess their potential for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Relevant data regarding isoflavones and their impact on neurodegenerative diseases were gathered from multiple library databases and electronic sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct. Numerous isoflavones, including genistein, daidzein, biochanin A, and formononetin, have exhibited potent neuroprotective properties against various neurodegenerative diseases. These compounds have been found to modulate neurotransmitters, which in turn contributes to their ability to protect against neurodegeneration. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental studies have provided evidence of their neuroprotection mechanisms, which involve interactions with estrogenic receptors, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory properties, anti-apoptotic activity, and modulation of neural plasticity. This review aims to provide current insights into the neuroprotective characteristics of isoflavones and shed light on their potential therapeutic applications in future clinical scenarios.

Research on the signaling pathways related to the intervention of traditional Chinese medicine in Parkinson's disease:A literature review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most common progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting more than 10 million people worldwide and is characterized by the progressive loss of Daergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. It has been reported that signaling pathways play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PD, while the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been found to possess a protective effect against PD. TCM has demonstrated significant potential in mitigating oxidative stress (OS), neuroinflammation, and apoptosis of DA neurons via the regulation of signaling pathways associated with PD.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This study discussed and analyzed the signaling pathways involved in the occurrence and development of PD and the mechanism of active ingredients of TCM regulating PD via signaling pathways, with the aim of providing a basis for the development and clinical application of therapeutic strategies for TCM in PD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

With "Parkinson's disease", "Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease", "Lewy Body Parkinson's Disease", "Parkinson's Disease, Idiopathic", "Parkinson Disease, Idiopathic", "Parkinson's disorders", "Parkinsonism syndrome", "Traditional Chinese medicine", "Chinese herbal medicine", "active ingredients", "medicinal plants" as the main keywords, PubMed, Web of Science and other online search engines were used for literature retrieval.

RESULTS

PD exhibits a close association with various signaling pathways, including but not limited to MAPKs, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, Nrf2/ARE, Wnt/β-catenin, TLR/TRIF, NLRP3, Notch. The therapeutic potential of TCM lies in its ability to regulate these signaling pathways. In addition, the active ingredients of TCM have shown significant effects in improving OS, neuroinflammation, and DA neuron apoptosis in PD.

CONCLUSION

The active ingredients of TCM have unique advantages in regulating PD-related signaling pathways. It is suggested to combine network pharmacology and bioinformatics to study the specific targets of TCM. This not only provides a new way for the prevention and treatment of PD with the active ingredients of TCM, but also provides a scientific basis for the selection and development of TCM preparations.

Bioactivities and Mechanisms of Action of Sinomenine and Its Derivatives: A Comprehensive Review

Sinomenine, an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from the roots and stems of Sinomenium acutum, has been extensively studied for its derivatives as bioactive agents. This review concentrates on the research advancements in the biological activities and action mechanisms of sinomenine-related compounds until November 2023. The findings indicate a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, including antitumor, anti-inflammation, neuroprotection, and immunosuppressive properties. These compounds are notably effective against breast, lung, liver, and prostate cancers, exhibiting IC50 values of approximately 121.4 nM against PC-3 and DU-145 cells, primarily through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Additionally, they manifest anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects predominantly via the NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2 signaling pathways. Utilized in treating rheumatic arthritis, these alkaloids also play a significant role in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, as well as organ protection through the NF-κB, Nrf2, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. This review concludes with perspectives and insights on this topic, highlighting the potential of sinomenine-related compounds in clinical applications and the development of medications derived from natural products.

Therapeutic potential of natural products in inflammation: underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical outcomes, technological advances, and future perspectives

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many major diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, and is responsible for up to 60% of all deaths worldwide. Metformin, statins, and corticosteroids, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are often given as anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals, however, often have even more debilitating side effects than the illness itself. The natural product-based therapy of inflammation-related diseases has no adverse effects and good beneficial results compared to substitute conventional anti-inflammatory medications. In this review article, we provide a concise overview of present pharmacological treatments, the pathophysiology of inflammation, and the signaling pathways that underlie it. In addition, we focus on the most promising natural products identified as potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Moreover, preclinical studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of natural products as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents and their pragmatic applications with promising outcomes are reviewed. In addition, the safety, side effects and technical barriers of natural products are discussed. Furthermore, we also summarized the latest technological advances in the discovery and scientific development of natural products-based medicine.

Pharmacological mechanisms of sinomenine in anti-inflammatory immunity and osteoprotection in rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Sinomenine (SIN) is the main pharmacologically active component of Sinomenii Caulis and protects against rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In recent years, many studies have been conducted to elucidate the pharmacological mechanisms of SIN in the treatment of RA. However, the molecular mechanism of SIN in RA has not been fully elucidated.

PURPOSE

To summarize the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of SIN in RA and clarify the most valuable regulatory mechanisms of SIN to provide clues and a basis for basic research and clinical applications.

METHODS

We systematically searched SciFinder, Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), the Wanfang Databases, and the Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP). We organized our work based on the PRISMA statement and selected studies for review based on predefined selection criteria.

OUTCOME

After screening, we identified 201 relevant studies, including 88 clinical trials and 113 in vivo and in vitro studies on molecular mechanisms. Among these studies, we selected key results for reporting and analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that most of the known pharmacological mechanisms of SIN are indirect effects on certain signaling pathways or proteins. SIN was manifested to reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines such as Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1β, thereby reducing the inflammatory response, and apparently blocking the destruction of bone and cartilage. The regulatory effects on inflammation and bone destruction make SIN a promising drug to treat RA. More notably, we believe that the modulation of α7nAChR and the regulation of methylation levels at specific GCG sites in the mPGES-1 promoter by SIN, and its mechanism of directly targeting GBP5, certainly enriches the possibilities and the underlying rationale for SIN in the treatment of inflammatory immune-related diseases.

The dual face of microglia (M1/M2) as a potential target in the protective effect of nutraceuticals against neurodegenerative diseases

The pathophysiology of different neurodegenerative illnesses is significantly influenced by the polarization regulation of microglia and macrophages. Traditional classifications of macrophage phenotypes include the pro-inflammatory M1 and the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Numerous studies demonstrated dynamic non-coding RNA modifications, which are catalyzed by microglia-induced neuroinflammation. Different nutraceuticals focus on the polarization of M1/M2 phenotypes of microglia and macrophages, offering a potent defense against neurodegeneration. Caeminaxin A, curcumin, aromatic-turmerone, myricetin, aurantiamide, 3,6'-disinapoylsucrose, and resveratrol reduced M1 microglial inflammatory markers while increased M2 indicators in Alzheimer's disease. Amyloid beta-induced microglial M1 activation was suppressed by andrographolide, sulforaphane, triptolide, xanthoceraside, piperlongumine, and novel plant extracts which also prevented microglia-mediated necroptosis and apoptosis. Asarone, galangin, baicalein, and a-mangostin reduced oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in M1-activated microglia in Parkinson's disease. Additionally, myrcene, icariin, and tenuigenin prevented the nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 inflammasome and microglial neurotoxicity, while a-cyperone, citronellol, nobiletin, and taurine prevented NADPH oxidase 2 and nuclear factor kappa B activation. Furthermore, other nutraceuticals like plantamajoside, swertiamarin, urolithin A, kurarinone, Daphne genkwa flower, and Boswellia serrata extracts showed promising neuroprotection in treating Parkinson's disease. In Huntington's disease, elderberry, curcumin, iresine celosia, Schisandra chinensis, gintonin, and pomiferin showed promising results against microglial activation and improved patient symptoms. Meanwhile, linolenic acid, resveratrol, Huperzia serrata, icariin, and baicalein protected against activated macrophages and microglia in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, emodin, esters of gallic and rosmarinic acids, Agathisflavone, and sinomenine offered promising multiple sclerosis treatments. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of using nutraceuticals to treat neurodegenerative diseases involving microglial-related pathways.

Role of astrocytes in sleep deprivation: accomplices, resisters, or bystanders?

Sleep plays an essential role in all studied animals with a nervous system. However, sleep deprivation leads to various pathological changes and neurobehavioral problems. Astrocytes are the most abundant cells in the brain and are involved in various important functions, including neurotransmitter and ion homeostasis, synaptic and neuronal modulation, and blood-brain barrier maintenance; furthermore, they are associated with numerous neurodegenerative diseases, pain, and mood disorders. Moreover, astrocytes are increasingly being recognized as vital contributors to the regulation of sleep-wake cycles, both locally and in specific neural circuits. In this review, we begin by describing the role of astrocytes in regulating sleep and circadian rhythms, focusing on: (i) neuronal activity; (ii) metabolism; (iii) the glymphatic system; (iv) neuroinflammation; and (v) astrocyte-microglia cross-talk. Moreover, we review the role of astrocytes in sleep deprivation comorbidities and sleep deprivation-related brain disorders. Finally, we discuss potential interventions targeting astrocytes to prevent or treat sleep deprivation-related brain disorders. Pursuing these questions would pave the way for a deeper understanding of the cellular and neural mechanisms underlying sleep deprivation-comorbid brain disorders.

Therapeutic Potential of Chinese Medicine for Endogenous Neurogenesis: A Promising Candidate for Stroke Treatment

Strokes are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in adults worldwide. Extensive preclinical studies have shown that neural-stem-cell-based treatments have great therapeutic potential for stroke. Several studies have confirmed that the effective components of traditional Chinese medicine can protect and maintain the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of endogenous neural stem cells through different targets and mechanisms. Therefore, the use of Chinese medicines to activate and promote endogenous nerve regeneration and repair is a potential treatment option for stroke patients. Here, we summarize the current knowledge regarding neural stem cell strategies for ischemic strokes and the potential effects of these Chinese medicines on neuronal regeneration.

Anti-Neuroinflammatory Potential of Natural Products in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related chronic progressive neurodegenerative disease, which is the main cause of dementia in the elderly. Much evidence shows that the onset and late symptoms of AD are caused by multiple factors. Among them, aging is the main factor in the pathogenesis of AD, and the most important risk factor for AD is neuroinflammation. So far, there is no cure for AD, but the relationship between neuroinflammation and AD may provide a new strategy for the treatment of AD. We herein discussed the main etiology hypothesis of AD and the role of neuroinflammation in AD, as well as anti-inflammatory natural products with the potential to prevent and alleviate AD symptoms, including alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols, which are available with great potential for the development of anti-AD drugs.

Sinomenine regulates immune cell subsets: Potential neuro-immune intervene for precise treatment of chronic pain

Chronic pain is a disease of long-lasting pain with unpleasant feelings mediated by central and (or) peripheral sensitization, its duration usually lasts more than 3 months or longer than the expected recovery time. The patients with chronic pain are manifested with enhanced sensitivity to noxious and non-noxious stimuli. Due to an incomplete understanding of the mechanisms, patients are commonly insensitive to the treatment of first line analgesic medicine in clinic. Thus, the exploration of non-opioid-dependent analgesia are needed. Recent studies have shown that "sinomenine," the main active ingredient in the natural plant "sinomenium acutum (Thunb.) Rehd. Et Wils," has a powerful inhibitory effect on chronic pain, but its underlying mechanism still needs to be further elucidated. A growing number of studies have shown that various immune cells such as T cells, B cells, macrophages, astrocytes and microglia, accompanied with the relative inflammatory factors and neuropeptides, are involved in the pathogenesis of chronic pain. Notably, the interaction of the immune system and sensory neurons is essential for the development of central and (or) peripheral sensitization, as well as the progression and maintenance of chronic pain. Based on the effects of sinomenine on immune cells and their subsets, this review mainly focused on describing the potential analgesic effects of sinomenine, with rationality of regulating the neuroimmune interaction.